The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is committed to supporting veterans, and one way they do this is through various assistance programs. You might be wondering, What Vfw Department Have A Becouse We Care Program? This article will clarify which VFW departments are known for having a “Because We Care” program and what it entails, focusing on the Department of Florida’s initiative as an example.
The VFW Department of Florida is notably recognized for its “Because We Care” program. This program is designed to provide crucial financial assistance to veterans and service members facing temporary financial hardships. It acts as a safety net during unexpected life events that can strain personal finances.
Eligibility for “Because We Care” Assistance
To be eligible for the VFW Department of Florida’s “Because We Care” program, applicants must meet specific criteria. These requirements ensure that assistance reaches those who have served and are in genuine need due to circumstances beyond their control. The key eligibility points include:
- Recent Honorable Service: The service member or veteran must have been honorably discharged within the 12 months prior to applying, or be currently on active duty within 12 months of application.
- Applicant Status: The applicant must be the service member or be a dependent of the service member listed or eligible to be listed in DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System).
- Nature of Hardship: The financial hardship must be primarily due to:
- Deployment, active military service, or a natural disaster.
- A medical emergency or the death of the service member or a dependent.
- Exclusions: Hardships resulting from civil, legal, or domestic misconduct, separation/divorce issues, or financial mismanagement are generally not covered.
- One-Time Assistance: Assistance is typically granted once per applicant, and payments are made directly to creditors, not to the applicant.
Expenses Covered by the Program
The “Because We Care” program aims to alleviate immediate financial pressures by covering essential expenses. Eligible expenses for payment include:
- Housing: Mortgage, rent, repairs, and homeowner’s insurance.
- Vehicle: Car payments, insurance, and essential repairs.
- Utilities and Primary Phone: Ensuring basic necessities are maintained.
- Food and Incidentals: Providing for daily living needs.
- Children’s Needs: Clothing, diapers, formula, necessary school or childcare expenses.
- Medical Expenses: Patient portions of necessary or emergency medical bills, prescriptions, and eyeglasses.
Certain expenses are not eligible for coverage to ensure the program’s funds are directed to the most critical needs. These ineligible expenses include:
- Credit cards, military charge cards, and retail store cards.
- Personal, student, and payday loans.
- Unauthorized travel expenses.
- Negative bank account balances.
- Non-essential services like cable, internet, and secondary phones.
- Cosmetic or investigational medical procedures.
- Taxes, including property taxes.
- Child support, alimony, and legal fees.
- Military or personal debts to friends or family.
- Furniture, electronics, and vehicle rentals.
- Down payments for homes or vehicles.
- Reimbursements for already paid bills.
- Bills resulting from excessive use or financial mismanagement.
It’s important to note that the VFW Department of Florida reserves the right to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, acknowledging that individual circumstances can vary significantly.
Application Process for “Because We Care”
Applying for the “Because We Care” program involves a straightforward process, but requires careful attention to documentation. To apply, you will need to gather the following documents:
- DD-214: Documenting your military service.
- Two Picture IDs: For identity verification.
- Verification Statement: A statement from a VFW Post Family Assistance Center Representative or VA Representative verifying military status and financial hardship. This statement must be signed and dated by the representative.
- Copies of Bills: Copies of the specific bills for which you are requesting assistance. These must clearly show the account holder’s name, account number, creditor’s name, and phone number with area code.
- Estimates for Repairs/Services: If requesting assistance for repairs or services, you’ll need two written estimates on company letterhead. For rent assistance, a copy of your lease agreement is required.
Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed, so ensuring all documentation is included is crucial.
Once your completed application is received, a VFW representative may contact you to discuss your case in detail or request additional information. This contact does not imply approval. You will be contacted once a final decision is made. Due to the volume of applications, status inquiries cannot be accommodated during processing. If you haven’t heard back within two business days of submitting your application, you can reach out to the VFW contact provided.
Please send completed applications to:
State “Because We Care” Director
Dave Harris
9851 Gilchrist Drive
Seffner, Florida 33584
Or via email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The VFW Department of Florida’s “Because We Care” program serves as a vital resource for veterans and service members in Florida facing unexpected financial challenges. While the primary focus here is on the Department of Florida, it is advisable to check with your local VFW department to inquire about similar programs that might be available in your area. The VFW network is dedicated to supporting veterans, and exploring available resources is always a worthwhile step for those in need.
Image: DrivePath Logo, a sponsor of the VFW, supporting veteran programs.
Image: PIXELBIT Logo, another sponsor contributing to VFW veteran support initiatives.
Image: GatorStrike logo, highlighting a national level sponsor for VFW programs and veteran assistance.
Image: VFW Insignia, the official emblem representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization.
